(Photo: iStock)
Do you know of someone who is considered a true boundary-setter in the South African dairy industry? Here’s the chance.
Agri-Expo, in partnership with Hollard, called on the dairy industry to nominate young standouts for the third annual Hollard Game Changer Award.
This initiative aims to award individuals who are already making an exceptional and lasting difference in the dairy industry.
The recipient of the 2026 award will be announced on Thursday 23 April during the South African Dairy Awards at the Nederburg estate in Paarl.
Breyton Milford, the general manager of Agri-Expo, says the focus is specifically on the new generation that is taking the industry forward.
“We invite role players in the industry to nominate persons under the age of 40 who are already making a significant and measurable contribution to the dairy industry.”
Pamella Dzindikwa (31), the head of production at Puglia Cheese in Somerset West, received the award in 2025, while Clement October (34), the head cheesemaker at Klein River Cheese in Stanford, was the first recipient in 2024.
Andries Wiese, Head of Agriculture at Hollard; Ursula-Ann Ostuni of Puglia Cheese; Pamella Dzindikwa; and Breyton Milford, General Manager of Agri-Expo. (Photo: Provided)
“Their careers witness remarkable growth: from junior positions to key roles in which they not only strengthen established brands, but also expand them with outstanding dairy products,” says Milford.
This year the winner walks away with a cash prize of R50 000, but for Hollard the real value lies in strengthening the industry’s future.
Andries Wiese, head of agriculture at Hollard, says that the award plays a key role in the development of young talent in the dairy industry.
“The success of previous winners confirms the importance of deliberately investing in young talent. When young people develop into key players in the dairy value chain, it is not only great for their individual careers, the industry’s long-term competitiveness and sustainability also benefits.
“The Hollard Game Changer Award is our contribution to recognizing and encouraging the next generation of expertise, innovation and leadership,” says Wiese.
How to nominate a standout
The South African Dairy Championships takes place with the support of partners such as IMCD and DSM-Firmenich, along with several other partners joining hands to celebrate excellence in the industry.
If you know a young boundary pusher, you can complete the nomination form here. The deadline for all nominations is March 30.